Grab suspends carpooling amid covid-19 threat
No carpooling across the metropolis in the meantime, ride-hailing giant Grab Philippines said on Thursday, as it moved to minimize the risks of transmitting the novel coronavirus disease (Covid-19) through its services.
In a statement, the Singapore-based company said it would be suspending its GrabShare services starting Friday, 12 noon, “and will resume as soon as the public health situation deescalates.”
Other Grab transport options like GrabCar and GrabFood, however, will remain available to the public.
‘Take hygiene seriously’
“We would like everyone to plan their travels prudently and to take their hygiene seriously,” Grab said, adding that the suspension of its carpool service—normally much more cheaper than GrabCar—will not affect fare rates.
‘Well and healthy’
Grab’s announcement is among several concerted efforts across the transport sector to promote the social distancing policy being pushed by the Department of Health, with the capital region reporting most of the confirmed Covid-19 cases in the country.
As of Thursday, several public officials have already disclosed they would have to undergo quarantine after being exposed to a Covid-19 patient.
Article continues after this advertisementOn Wednesday, Grab Philippines head Brian Cu himself underwent testing for the virus after being exposed to a Covid-19 positive Singaporean colleague.
Article continues after this advertisementHis tests came back negative and he turned out “well and healthy,” according to Grab.
The company also said none of its employees have tested positive for the virus thus far.
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